Full title: Conserving the Imperial Amazon Parrot in Dominica

Aims: The project aims to strengthen the conservation of the Imperial Amazon (Amazona imperialis), a critically endangered parrot endemic to Dominica and the country’s national emblem. The project seeks to improve knowledge of the species’ population status and breeding activity, reduce human–wildlife conflict with farmers, and strengthen the capacity of civil society organizations to contribute to long-term conservation actions.

Location: Dominica – primarily within and around Morne Diablotin National Park, the main stronghold of the Imperial Amazon population.

Dates: 2026-2027

Summary: The Imperial Amazon (Amazona imperialis), also known as the Sisserou, is the national bird of Dominica and one of the rarest parrot species in the world. Endemic to the island’s mountainous forests, the species is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Its population has declined significantly since the 19th century and remains highly vulnerable to threats such as climate change, habitat degradation, extreme weather events, and human–wildlife conflict linked to crop damages.

The project aims to strengthen conservation actions by combining scientific research, capacity building, and community engagement. Caribaea Initiative works in partnership with the Dominican NGO EcoBalance Inc. and local stakeholders to empower civil society to actively contribute to the monitoring and conservation of the species. The project will develop a monitoring program using modern non-invasive tools such as passive acoustic recorders and camera traps to improve knowledge of population size, spatial distribution, and breeding activity. In addition, artificial nest boxes will be designed and installed to increase the availability of nesting sites and support breeding success. To reduce conflict between parrots and farmers, the project will evaluate the extent of crop damage and test non-lethal deterrent techniques. The results will be compiled into practical guidelines for farmers. The project will also implement education and awareness campaigns targeting farmers, schools, and the wider public, aiming to improve understanding of the ecological importance of the Imperial Amazon and the challenges posed by climate change. Finally, the project will lead to the development of a 10-year conservation action plan for the Imperial Amazon, strengthening coordination between civil society, governmental authorities, and regional conservation networks.